Police say attacker will have facial injuries after struggle

A security camera image of the Sunnyvale offender following the woman before he attacked her. Photo / Sunnyvale

Police have released a photograph of a man they believe followed a woman off a train in West Auckland and viciously assaulted her.

Noreen Roudin, 26, was attacked on Friday minutes after she got off the train at the Sunnyvale station at 7.37pm. She fought back and escaped with only a black eye.

Police said the man, filmed by security cameras walking after Ms Roudin at the station, will have injuries to his face, including scratches inflicted by his victim's false fingernails.

Detective Sergeant Peter Litherland said the man tried to get Ms Roudin on to the ground, but fled when she started to punch and kick him.

"The female resisted the assault ... in a gutsy display of courage the victim was able to repel what was clearly a premeditated and sinister attack," he said.

The attacker, described as a Pacific Islander or possibly Indian aged in his late 20s or early 30s, was in the same carriage on the train as Ms Roudin and police are appealing for anyone who saw him to come forward.

Mr Litherland said the attacker would have difficulties concealing the injuries to his face.

If you know who this man is or have information that could help police identify him, contact Detective Sergeant Peter Litherland on (09) 839-0627 or through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555-111.